Japan is reportedly preparing to export a command and control system to the Philippines. Designed by Mitsubishi Electric, the system would collect and analyze data about ships and planes passing through the area, and issue instructions to deployed military units. The transfer is aimed at improving cooperation between Japan’s Self-Defense Forces and the Philippine army to respond to situations in the East and South China Seas. If it happens, it would be the first time Japan has exported a command-and-control system overseas.
Tokyo and Manila signed a pact last year that facilitates reciprocal troop deployments and joint exercises. They also established a high-level strategic dialogue mechanism in February. Meanwhile, their respective relationships with China remained frosty this year.
